Thoracodorsal Nerve - Podcast Version 0:00 / 0:00 1x 0.25x 0.5x 0.75x 1x 1.25x 1.5x 1.75x 2x The thoracodorsal nerve is a motor nerve arising from the posterior cord of the brachial plexus. It supplies motor innervation to the latissumus dorsi of the upper back. Pro Feature - 3D Model You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our 3D Model Library Explore, cut, dissect, annotate and manipulate our 3D models to visualise anatomy in a dynamic, interactive way. Learn More Course The thoracodorsal nerve originates from the posterior cord of the brachial plexus in the apex of the axilla. It typically lies between the upper and lower subscapular nerves, posterior to the subscapular artery. The nerve descends along the posterior wall of the axilla, before passing anterior to the artery – which now becomes the thoracodorsal artery. Together, this neurovascular bundle crosses the inferior border of teres major, before piercing the latissumus dorsi muscle. Adobe Stock, Licensed to TeachMeSeries Ltd Fig 1The thoracodorsal nerve arises from the posterior cord of the brachial plexus to innervate the latissimus dorsi muscle Sensory Functions The thoracodorsal nerve has no sensory function. Motor Functions The thoracodorsal nerve supplies motor innervation to the latissimus dorsi muscle. By TeachMeSeries Ltd (2026) Fig 2The superficial muscles of the back Frequent questions What is the thoracodorsal nerve? The thoracodorsal nerve is a motor nerve that originates from the posterior cord of the brachial plexus. It primarily provides motor innervation to the latissimus dorsi muscle in the upper back. Where does the thoracodorsal nerve arise from? The thoracodorsal nerve arises from the posterior cord of the brachial plexus, specifically at the apex of the axilla. It is situated between the upper and lower subscapular nerves and travels along the posterior wall of the axilla. What is the course of the thoracodorsal nerve? The thoracodorsal nerve descends along the posterior axillary wall and passes anterior to the subscapular artery, which becomes the thoracodorsal artery. It then crosses beneath the teres major muscle before entering the latissimus dorsi. What muscles are innervated by the thoracodorsal nerve? The thoracodorsal nerve innervates the latissimus dorsi muscle, providing the necessary motor function for its movement. This muscle plays a key role in shoulder adduction, extension, and internal rotation. Does the thoracodorsal nerve have any sensory functions? No, the thoracodorsal nerve does not have any sensory functions. Its sole role is to supply motor innervation to the latissimus dorsi muscle. Rate This Article